Looking for the best accommodations on Big Pine Key? Big Pine Key & the Florida Keys has wildlife refuges to protect rare and endangered animals. You’ll leave behind the commercialism of the Upper Keys for an authentic back country atmosphere. This small group of islands is connected from the west end of the Seven Mile Bridge at Sunshine Key. You’ll find family-owned resorts, RV parks, campgrounds, quaint B&B’s and licensed vacation homes, as well as eclectic restaurants, native wildernesses and rich history. Make sure to visit Bahia Honda State Park , where you’ll find white sandy beaches and abundant wildlife. Frequently referred to as “one of the most beautiful beaches in America”. Shop, dine or explore the National Key Deer Refuge, where Key Deer live. Visit the freshwater habitat of the Blue Hole or No Name Key for a back country kayak adventure.
Learn more about all of Florida’s beautiful beaches here, or visit us on Pinterest.
Big Pine Key Weather – When to Visit
From mid-December through mid-April, it will get a little busy in Big Pine Key. From November to mid-December crowds are thinner, the weather is great, and hotels and shops drastically reduce their prices. Summer is the second busiest time, especially among families, Europeans, bargain-seekers, and lobster divers. From June through September, 90% humidity levels are not uncommon. But weather in the Keys is more moderate than in mainland Florida. The Keys also get much less rain than mainland Florida, mostly in quick downpours on summer afternoons. In hurricane season, June through November, the Keys get their fair share of warnings; pay attention to these, and evacuate earlier rather than later, when flights and automobile traffic get backed up.
Best Big Pine Area Beaches
Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas National ParkThe Dry Tortugas beach on Garden Key is a great place to spend the day after visiting Fort Jefferson. The water around the Garden Key and the Dry Tortugas is absolutely amazing, so snorkeling is great here. You can only access the Dry Tortugas by seaplane or ferry, so this is not a place you can plan on going for just a few hours.
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Calusa Beach
Calusa BeachCalusa Beach is on the Gulf side. It’s sometimes called the Bayside Beach, and is at the southern end of the Bahia Honda Park. Calusa Beach is a popular family beach as it’s protected from the wind. You can also take a stroll on the restored section of the old Flagler bridge.
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Loggerhead Beach
Loggerhead BeachLoggerhead Beach is great for snorkeling, and there’s a tiny rocky island with a few trees on it, not far from shore. You can kayak or boat out to the island, then snorkel around the water looking at a variety of marine life. The sand bar not far from shore is a great place to go when the tide is out. You can search for shells and other interesting finds such as sea glass plus you’ll have an excellent view of the old bridge.
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Sandspur Beach
Sandspur BeachSandspur Beach is without a doubt the most spectacular of the beaches at Bahia Honda State Park. It’s a mile-long beach with the coral reef offshore protecting the shoreline, so there is little to no wave action. Sandspur beach also has a gentle sloping drop off, making this another great beach for children. The water is warm all year round.
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Bahia Honda State Park
Bahia Honda State ParkFamous for its 3 beaches, Bahia Honda State Park is one of the best places to go Florida Keys snorkeling and beach combing. Just don’t forget to bring your snorkeling gear with you. Bahia Honda also operates as a State Park, so there’s a day use fee, and a camping fee.
Best Big Pine Restaurants
Little Palm’s Dining Room Above $61
Experience the restaurant’s candlelit ambiance indoors, or opt for a table on their breezy terrace overlooking the beach. The Dining Room at Little Palm Island is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner for resort guests and off-island visitors. They also offer an incredible Sunday Brunch each week, monthly Full Moon Dinners, and Wine Maker Events. Reservations and proper attire are required. They welcome young adults age 16 and older. Telephone: 305-872-2524 Web: Little Palm’s Dining Room.
Good Food Conspiracy $11 – 30
This tiny spot on Big Pine Key has been an oasis for vegetarians for over 30 years, and they have the hippie vibe to prove it. Blink and you might miss it on the Overseas Highway, so watch for the “Juice Bar and Deli” sign. Inside the low-key natural food market, you’ll find a deli serving a variety of gluten-free soups, wraps, salads, juices, smoothies and desserts. Pull up a stool at the juice bar, or take your goodies out back to the picnic tables in the colorful herb garden. Try the Freeze–frozen organic fruit transformed into ice cream. Their Avocado Cheese Melt gets rave reviews, and meat-eaters will be happy to find tuna and range-fed turkey. Telephone: 305-872-3945 Web: Good Food Conspiracy.
No Name Pub $11 – 30
No Name Pub has been awarded top scores for food and service in the ZAGAT Survey’s Casual Dining category for many years running. The ZAGAT surveyed over 700 South Florida restaurants and rated the No Name Pub as the “Best casual dining experience in the Florida Keys ”. They went on to say, if you can find it you’ll be rewarded with the “best pizza anywhere”, chili, smoked fish dip and sandwiches served on paper plates in a real old rustic bar plastered with autographed dollar bills; those in the know say this Big Pine Key haunt is “worth the drive.” Telephone: 305-872-9115 Web: No Name Pub.
Square Grouper $11 – 30
The restaurant earns rave reviews with dishes that not only taste close-your-eyes-and-grin good, their presentation is lovely. For starters, try the flash-fried conch with wasabi drizzle or home-smoked fish dip. Then perhaps order the seafood pasta with key lime butter sauce. It’s okay to drool. Upstairs, chef Lynn has opened a beatnik-style tapas bar. Telephone: 305-745-8880 Web: Square Grouper
Lazy Days South (Marathon Key) $11 – 30
This restaurant offers views just as spectacular as its highly regarded food. Here you’ll find a wide range of daily offerings from fried or sautéed conch and a coconut-fried fish du jour sandwich to seafood pastas and beef tips over rice. Choose a table on the outdoor deck, or inside underneath paddle fans and surrounded by local art. Telephone: 305-289-0839 Web: Lazy Days South
Best Big Pine Bars
Springer’s Bar & Grill
Springer’s Bar and Grill offers the best food, drinks and live music in the Florida Keys! They offer mouth watering menu items that are sure to please your palate and fill you up. From our Duval Pot Pie, to thin crust Pizza, to the BEST Blackened Fish Sandwiches to the Keys, there is something for everyone on their menu. Join them for some fun and drinks on their outside patio while listening to local musicians sing live music. Springer’s is a great place to relax and have fun with the entire family here in the Keys. Telephone: 305-872-3022 Web: Springer’s Bar & Grill.
Boondocks Grille & Draft House
The “Largest Tiki Bar in the Keys” delivers great food and entertainment for every member of your family right down to your pet. Boondocks’ modern facilities, spotless kitchen, cold prep room and pet friendly patio can cater to party’s of any size. With a large selection of lunch sandwiches and dinner entrees, their restaurant features fresh catch seafood, artisan-crafted pizzas, crisp quality salads, huge burgers and more. Boondocks’ “Southern Cooking Keys Style” is why some people spend 5 days a week dining in their open air restaurant. Telephone: 305-872-4094 Web: Boondocks Grille & Draft House.
Looe Key Tiki Bar
Nice open atmosphere. A tiki bar where the locals hang out. A great hang out to sit and watch one of the 20 TV’s. Happy Hour drink prices are great! Enjoy $2 tacos on Taco Tuesday. Telephone: 305-204-4109 Web: Looe Key Tiki Bar
Kiki’s Sand Bar & Grille
Head here by boat, car, motorcycle or kayak! Great atmosphere and views of Newfound and Marsh harbors. Pier with dock and great nature sightings….you must see the resident bull sharks! Inside or outside seating, live music, and a great selection of beers and wine. Telephone: 305-872-4500 Web: Kiki’s Sand Bar & Grille
No Name Pub
The No Name’s one of those off-the-track places that everyone seems to know about. Despite the isolated location, folks come from all over to this divey spot to add their dollar bills to the walls, drink locally brewed beer, enjoy a little classic rock playing overhead, and feast on excellent pizzas, burgers and pub grub. Take in the kooky ambiance from a bar stool or head out back to a shaded yard full of picnic tables. Telephone: 305-872-9115 Web: No Name Pub.
Best Accommodations on Big Pine Key
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This sounds like exactly the kind of Florida Keys experience I’ve been looking for. I love the idea of leaving the busier Upper Keys behind and finding something more relaxed and authentic. The wildlife refuges and kayaking around No Name Key really caught my attention. Do you think Big Pine Key is better for nature lovers than nightlife seekers? And would this be a good place to stay for a longer, slower trip rather than just a quick stop?
I’m so glad this resonated with you. Big Pine Key is absolutely ideal for travelers who love nature, quiet beaches, and the authentic Florida Keys lifestyle. This area is perfect for a slower stay, especially if you enjoy wildlife viewing, kayaking the backcountry, and visiting places like Bahia Honda State Park and the National Key Deer Refuge. While nightlife is more low-key here compared to Key West, the charm comes from peaceful sunsets, local restaurants, and uncrowded beaches. Big Pine Key accommodations are especially popular for longer stays where visitors want to recognize faces, explore nearby islands, and truly unwind. Are you imagining a laid-back beach escape or more of an outdoor-focused Keys adventure?
Big Pine Key sounds like such a peaceful part of the Keys! I love the idea of seeing the Key Deer and visiting Bahia Honda State Park — that beach looks incredible. Would you say it’s better to stay right on Big Pine Key or somewhere nearby like Marathon or Little Torch Key for easier access to restaurants and nightlife?
That’s a great question — and you’ll love either option, depending on your vibe! 🌴 Big Pine Key is perfect if you’re after peace, nature, and that authentic “Old Florida Keys” feel. You’ll be close to the National Key Deer Refuge and Bahia Honda’s stunning beaches — ideal for unwinding. If you prefer a bit more dining variety and live music in the evenings, Marathon or Little Torch Key offer a livelier atmosphere while still being just a short drive away. Many travelers actually split their time between the two for the best of both worlds — serenity and a little fun!
I’ve always wanted to see the Key Deer! Do you usually spot them easily when you visit Big Pine Key, or is it more of a rare sight?
Great question! You can usually spot the Key Deer pretty easily if you head into the National Key Deer Refuge, especially in the early morning or around sunset. They’re smaller than most people expect and really unique to the area.
Bahia Honda State Park sounds amazing. Do you recommend spending the whole day there, or is a few hours enough to enjoy the beaches?
Bahia Honda is definitely worth a full day if you can fit it in! Between snorkeling, beachcombing, and just relaxing on Sandspur or Loggerhead Beach, time flies. Even a few hours is lovely, though — especially if you just want to enjoy the water and a picnic.
This post makes Big Pine Key sound so inviting! I had no idea it was such a quiet, back-country alternative to the Upper Keys. Bahia Honda State Park looks amazing — especially Sandspur Beach. Do you think it’s better to stay on Big Pine Key itself, or is it easy enough to base in Marathon and drive over for day trips?
I’m so glad you enjoyed the post! 😊 You’re absolutely right — Big Pine Key offers a quieter, more authentic Keys experience. Both options work well depending on your style of travel. If you want that laid-back, small-island feel, staying right on Big Pine is perfect, especially with its charming B&Bs and vacation rentals. But if you’d like more dining and activity options, Marathon makes a great base — it’s only about a 20-minute drive, so you can easily spend the day exploring Big Pine and Bahia Honda. Do you usually prefer having lots of restaurants and nightlife nearby, or more of a peaceful ‘escape’ vibe?
This post makes me realize how much I’ve overlooked Big Pine Key when planning trips to Florida. The idea of seeing Key Deer at the refuge or kayaking around No Name Key sounds amazing. I also like that it still has that back-country feel compared to the busy Upper Keys. If you had just a few days there, what would you say are the absolute must-see spots or experiences to prioritize?
I’m so glad you found the post helpful! Big Pine Key really does have such a unique, back-country charm compared to the busier parts of the Keys. If you only had a few days, I’d say start with Bahia Honda State Park for its incredible beaches, then definitely spend some time at the National Key Deer Refuge — spotting those little deer is unforgettable. A kayak trip around No Name Key is another must, and if you enjoy a bit of history, exploring the local trails and small restaurants gives you that authentic Keys feel. It’s a perfect mix of nature and laid-back adventure.
I love how you described Big Pine Key—it sounds so different from the more commercial parts of the Keys. The mix of family-owned resorts and B&Bs really appeals to me because it feels more authentic. Bahia Honda State Park has been on my list for a while, and now I’m even more convinced to go. Do you think staying in a vacation rental is the best way to experience the area, or would you recommend one of the smaller resorts instead?
That’s such a good question! Both options really have their perks. Vacation rentals give you that “live like a local” feel and can be great if you want extra space or a kitchen. On the other hand, the small family-owned resorts and B&Bs on Big Pine Key add so much charm — you’ll often get personal recommendations from the owners and a stronger sense of community. Honestly, you can’t go wrong, but if it’s your first time, I’d lean toward one of the smaller resorts for that authentic Keys welcome.
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Oh my, this is a lovely place to go. I’ve been to Florida before, but I haven’t got the opportunity to visit Big Pine Key.
The Bahia Honda State Park seems to be a great place to visit. Not so crowded and looks so serene. Such a perfect spot to de-stress from our busy life.
Btw, do you recommend visiting this place with small children?
Yes, GREAT place with small children. There is so much animal life, the dolphins are a huge hit! I think the Florida Keys would be a wonderful place to visit with kids 🙂 Thanks for reading Rina!
Wonderful place:) Really nice place to have a holiday .
You really make me want to escape for a week in this small paradise:)
I can see that you have everything prepared here, flight tickets, cars. rooms…..everything….
Is a very nice article and i think is very informative. Thanks for sharing and i will seriously think about:)
Cristina
Thanks for visiting Cristina 🙂 Yes, I am partial to Florida. I think they have the best beaches in the U.S. minus Hawaii which is just not very cost effective.
Oh my goodness, this makes me want to go to the beach again! I can’t wait till summer, I haven’t been to Florida in over two years. This year our big beach trip was Jamaica which wasn’t short of AWESOME! Though with all the beaches I have ever been to the Florida Keys. I am so glad I stumbled across this article, it was really insightful. I think I found next summer’s beach vacation spot 🙂 Though I usually book with expedia, but I noticed you didn’t add them as a recommended site, would you say you get better deals through tripadvisor?
Yes, I love booking with Trip Advisor and they will find all the good deals for you. Really the best way to go, plus you get to read all the reviews and make you everything is going to be to your standards. The Florida Keys are an experience for every beach lover!
Man all those pictures and the video about all the different wild life down in the keys just took me right back there.
In 2005 or thereabouts I went down to Scout Island with my Eagle boy scout son Ethan and the troop of course.
I had no idea what pleasures awaited us. We did everything you have written about: navigating the mangroves, snorkeling the reefs, shooing the key deer away from our food and so much more.
It was paradise. One day we actually caught a boat over to Big Pine Key and just walked around, had lunch and generally had a blast. The whole experience in the Florida keys is mystifying!
Next time I go back I’m taking my wife as she hasn’t had the “Key” experience yet. We will definitely be going to Big Pine Key. I’m bookmarking this site!!!
Great John! Everyone needs to experience the Florida Keys. The beaches, the atmosphere, the food, the entertainment….all well worth the trip!
Wow! How many days do foreign tourists typically spend here? I suppose those in the U.S. can afford to take a few days break and revisit next time.
Do people use this area as a base to travel out to surrounding places? Do you recommend people coming straight here from the nearest airport?
I’d have to say that Big Pine Key is more of a pass thru for visitors on there way down the keys to Key West. I don’t know that most people would come to specifically stay here for there entire vacation. The whole Florida Keys and it’s beaches is wonderful!
Beautiful site! Bahia Honda State Park looks amazing.
My wife and I prefer a little seclusion, and have never been to the keys. This looks like a great option. We’ll bookmark your site and add this to our to do list. I see the cooler season is still pretty nice too. Do the rates change seasonally down there?
Yes, everyone needs to visit Bahia Honda State Park….so much to do and so much beauty. Thanks for visiting Big Pine Key and the fabulous Florida Keys Beaches!
Great site I can see that you really did your home or your are just an experienced traveler either way I like how you break everything down from weather to best days to buy your tickets. Pleasant experience, great display of pictures and very well thought out and around of applause for Matty’s Mom.
Thank you so much Randy! It is definitely a passion of mine as I love beaches. And Florida beaches are the best in the U.S., I think. I am glad you enjoyed visiting Marathon Key and the wonderful beaches of Florida.
Leahrae, Great website! Your layout and content are superb! The pics are so inviting and the videos are compelling.
My wife and I just returned last night from a week’s vacation in the Keys. I wish we had known about your site before our trip! We stayed in Marathon, traveled 2 days to Key West, and the other days saw many attractions throughout the Key islands. Had a wonderful time and will definitely return!
I am bookmarking your page because it is such a good resource. Keep up the great work!
Thank you so much Marty! I am glad you enjoyed reading about the Florida Keys. You will have to let me know where you stayed in Marathon Key and what you thought about it.
Hello! First, I have now bookmarked this website as I am all about beach travel vacations. Second, thanks for all the information about Big Pine Key. We were considering going there, but hadn’t yet spent too much time researching the possibilities. However, I came upon your site and and didn’t need to look anywhere else. You provided all the information and links I would be looking for. Excellent! Big Pine Key – here we come!
Thank you Maggie for visiting Beach Travel Destinations! I am glad you enjoyed reading.
Thank you for this fantastic information! We have been looking for a new part of Florida to explore from our RV – one that is less-touristy and more natural. We have yet to visit the keys….not sure why we haven’t been. Maybe I expected it all to be like Key West, and bars just aren’t my thing.
But the deer refuge! We will be planning an extended visit there soon.
You know, pretty much anywhere in the Keys will be different than Key West, especially Big Pine Key. Thank you for reading, and I know you will enjoy!
Big Pine Key Vacations in Florida has to be on our list for future holidays, sounds wonderful.
We live in the Sunny UK and like to escape to destinations like Mallorca or Lanzarote for our holidays but we do keep saying we’re going to have a change and fly over the big pond to visit parts of America and Pine Keys in Florida looks like a great place to start for us, reading your review.
Thanks,
Simon.
Thanks for visiting Simon. Yes, Big Pine Key is a great way to start off a vacation in the Florida Keys. Just the drive alone is beautiful, not to mention the beaches, nightlife, activities, and sunset parties. You would have a great time!
Wow, you’ve really done a great job hitting all the main points for this particular destination. Were I looking to visit this area, your post would be a great resource for me in planning my getaway. One of the things I love about your post is that you talked about the weather. Many sites do not get into that much depth about the year-round weather, and I think the graph you included really sets your post apart. Well done!
Thank you Rachel! I am one of those that just has to have the weather. I am a summer person, as if anybody would have never guess, and I don’t like to go anywhere when it’s cold. So I thought the visual would be good, I’m glad it is. Thank you for reading about Big Pine Key Vacations!
Thanks for such an extensive review on the Florida Keys.
I’ve been looking to vacation there for some time and really enjoyed learning more about it, plus all the services that are around the area.
Will certainly be getting in touch with some of them to plan my holiday… Cheers and keep up the great reviews.
Adam 🙂
Thank you Adam! The Florida Keys are amazing and Big Pine Key is a little unique, and well worth staying for a couple of days! Thanks for visiting Big Pine Key Vacations!